JetBlue plans new route network for CARES Act compliance

Faced with the requirement to serve a number of airports that otherwise lack demand JetBlue will adjust its route network in May and June, offering a number of “tag” flights rather than nonstop service to a focus city. The moves are aimed at reducing costs while maintaining compliance with DOT-issued guidance tied to the receipt of financial support from the CARES Act.

While this is the most economical way of serving these markets, saving us resources and cash, our Government Affairs team continues to work with the DOT to gain further flexibility in order to reduce flying even more to better match demand. So please be aware that this decision is subject to change as work with the DOT proceeds.

The following new routes will operate as direct flights:

Boston – Chicago – Minneapolis/St. Paul

Boston – Denver – Albuquerque

Boston – New Orleans – Houston

Boston – Las Vegas – San Diego

Boston – Seattle – Portland, OR

Long Beach – Palm Springs – New York/JFK

Long Beach – Salt Lake City – Bozeman

New York/JFK – Denver – Albuquerque

New York/JFK – New Orleans – Houston

New York/JFK – Las Vegas – San Diego

New York/JFK – Seattle – Portland, OR

New York/JFK – San Francisco – Sacramento

New York/JFK – Orlando – Sarasota

The “tag” flights are expected to be loaded for sale in the coming week.

While JetBlue will maintain its Mint business class offering in the transcon markets those same aircraft continuing on tag flights (e.g. SFO-SMF, LAS-SAN, SEA-PDX) will not offer the upgraded experience on board.

Additionally, not all of the routes will operate throughout the period. Expect to see either JFK or Boston as a base for some of the routings, for example, switching between the two as demand shifts, rather than both operating at the same time.

I predicted some of these routes a week ago, though I also suggested a more aggressive and triangle approach rather than tag-flights.

For JetBlue, I'd fly a bunch of triangle routes. Each should be able to operate <8 hours total block time to stay within the duty day for pilots.

Combine PDX/SMF, BZN/RNO, PSP/ABQ from LGB or LAX. Pair ORD/MSP from BOS/JFK and DFW/IAH from MCO/FLL.

About Seth Miller

Seth Miller has over a decade of experience covering the airline industry. With a strong focus on passenger experience, Seth also has deep knowledge of inflight connectivity and loyalty programs. He is widely respected as an unbiased commentator on the aviation industry.

He is frequently consulted on innovations in passenger experience by airlines and technology providers.